Rule Utilitarianism
A form of utilitarianism evaluating the morality of acts not by their individual consequences but by whether following the rule governing that act would maximize utility if universally adopted. Rule utilitarians argue we should follow rules like 'don't lie' or 'keep promises' because general rule-following produces better consequences than individual exceptions.
Real World
Speed limits are a rule utilitarian policy: no individual case is assessed — everyone follows the same rule because universal compliance with a 70 mph limit produces better overall outcomes (fewer deaths) than allowing each driver to decide their own safe speed.
Exam Focus
Address the 'rule utilitarianism collapses into act utilitarianism' objection in evaluation answers; this demonstrates sophisticated engagement with the internal debate.
How well did you know this?